Design, Architecture, Gardens, Southern California Living

Bargain hunters who flock to Long Beach or Pasadena for the best second-hand buys will have a new destination starting July 18: Dodger Stadium, site of the forthcoming L.A. Flea Market. The monthly market will try to distinguish itself as more than just a place to shop. With 500 vendors, gourmet food trucks and live entertainment, it promises to be an event, its organizer says.

"We've got room for up to
2,500 vendors," says Phillip Dane, who also
founded the Fairfax Trading Post. "And we can accommodate 25,000 people."

The event will feature the usual outdoor market fodder: antiques, collectibles and other furnishings, plus vintage clothing. The market will also house a place for arts and crafts, green products and booths for charitable foundations. General tickets with parking will be $5 and allow admission from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.;
early-bird tickets will be $10 and allow admission at 7 a.m. VIP tickets, $25, will include early admission, valet parking and carryout service. Kids under 12 will get in free.

Dane created the carryout service because hauling items can be something of an ordeal at an outdoor market.

"Every time you purchase an item, you get a ticket," he said. "When you are done shopping, you give your tickets to a runner who will then go out and pick up your merchandise and put it in your car." Delivery service also will be available for bulky items.

The goal with the food, Dane says, is to "bring in the best food possible and have it look clean. The food trucks are fantastic looking and they have a huge following." Fifteen trucks will create a food court representing Komodo, Border Grill, India Jones and Tropical Shave Ice, among others.

The kids' play area will have a rock-climbing wall and an inflatable Titanic ship. Pets will be welcome as long as they are on a leash.